

Now is the time to rethink engineering productivity
16 snips Jun 3, 2025
Hosts dive into the evolving landscape of engineering productivity amid the rise of AI. They discuss the urgency for CTOs to define meaningful AI strategies and measure true productivity impacts. The conversation emphasizes shifting from passive data use to actively improving processes and workflows. Highlights include the challenges of integrating AI tools, preserving developer focus, and aligning executive and developer perspectives on productivity. A new approach is essential for enhancing job efficiency and transforming developer experiences.
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AI Coding Assistants' Sweet Spot
- AI coding assistants perform best on well-constrained tasks with clear context.
- AI is like a senior-level coder with junior decision-making skills, needing guidance in complex scenarios.
Pen and Paper vs Digital Notes
- Andrew uses digital notes in Obsidian; Ben prefers handwriting on a tablet to retain knowledge.
- Both value offline note-taking methods to protect creative energy and improve focus.
Keeper of Shadow Dev Tools
- Ben managed unofficial shadow dev tools that developers used to circumvent restrictive processes.
- Some tools became officially sanctioned, highlighting the gap between developer needs and official tooling.